India’s gold and silver markets anticipate over Rs 20,000 crore in sales this Akshay Tritiya, a rise from last year’s Rs 16,000 crore, despite record-high prices. Consumers are shifting towards lightweight jewelry and silver, with a notable decline in the volume of metals purchased, indicating value growth driven by price escalation rather than increased consumption.

India aims for 100% ethanol blending to boost energy self-reliance amid West Asian oil supply concerns, according to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. He highlighted the nation’s heavy reliance on oil imports and the environmental benefits of alternative fuels. Gadkari also discussed the potential of green hydrogen and the circular economy for job creation.

Bangladesh is exploring a proposal to refine Russian crude oil in India before importing the finished fuel, aiming to ease supply pressures from the West Asia conflict. The Energy and Mineral Resources Division has requested approval to discuss a government-to-government agreement with India, as its local refinery cannot process Russian crude.